Texas Senate Bill SB908

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/30/11
• Introduced: 2/23/11
• Refer: 3/17/11
• Report Pass: 3/30/11

Caption

Relating to requirements for businesses that offer plastic checkout bags to customers.

Impact

The impact of SB908 extends to the operations of larger retail businesses, which must adapt to new requirements concerning checkout bag provision. This includes creating training programs for employees on the proper distribution of reusable bags and implementing a plastic bag recycling program. The bill obliges these businesses to maintain a collection system for used plastic bags, aimed at facilitating recycling efforts and reducing landfill contributions, aligning with broader environmental initiatives across the state.

Summary

SB908 aims to regulate the offering of plastic checkout bags by businesses within Texas, mandating that those who provide such bags must also offer reusable alternatives for sale. The bill defines businesses subject to the requirements, laying out specific criteria based on size and annual sales, thus targeting larger retailers while exempting smaller entities. The goal of the legislation is to promote environmental sustainability by encouraging recycling and the use of reusable bags, thereby reducing plastic waste generated by retail establishments.

Contention

Notably, the bill preempts any local ordinances that might conflict with its provisions, which could lead to contention among municipalities with their own plastic bag regulations. Supporters of SB908 argue that a standardized approach simplifies compliance for businesses operating in multiple locales, while opponents express concern that overriding local governance diminishes the ability of communities to address specific environmental issues pertinent to their regions. The outcome of this preemption may lead to heated debates on authority and environmental responsibility within Texas governance.